B5: Endocrine system Flashcards
What are hormones?
Chemical messengers which travel in the blood to activate target cells or organs.
How are hormones carried around the body?
They are produced in/ secreted by glands into the blood stream and are carried by blood plasma.
What is the endocrine system made up of?
A number of glands called endocrine glands that have various functions.
What does the endocrine system do?
Uses hormones to react to changes in the environment or in internal changes.
What is the difference between the endocrine system and the nervous system?
1) Nervous system uses electrical impulses sent through neurones whereas the endocrine system uses hormones which are chemicals carries in the blood.
2) Signalling in the nervous system is faster than in the endocrine system.
3) Nervous system effect is short lasting whereas endocrine system is long lasting.
4) Nerves act on a precise area whereas hormones act more generally.
What are the key endocrine glands?
1) The adrenal glands.
2) Pituitary gland.
3) The pancreas.
4) Thyroid gland.
5) The ovaries ( female only).
6) The testes (males only).
Where are these glands located?
image in notebook.
What are the functions of these glands?
1) Adrenal glands: Produces adrenaline to prepare body for ‘flight or fight’.
2) Pituitary gland: Produces a number of glands depending on body conditions. This is to regulate body conditions. It can trigger other glands to secrete hormones.
3) The pancreas: Produces insulin to control body glucose levels.
4) Thyroid gland: Produces thyroxine which is involved in the regulation of metabolism, heart rate and temperature.
5) The ovaries ( in females only): These produce oestrogen, which is involved with the menstrual cycle.
6) The Testes (in males only): Produces testosterone, which controls puberty and sperm production.
Which gland is referred to as the master gland?
The pituitary gland.
